Games.MacNN has posted a preview of Pop Top Software's dictator simulation game, Tropico. It covers everything from gameplay and the upgraded game engine to each character who will inhabit the virtual island. Here is an excerpt about the RPG-like attributes of the population you rule in Tropic:

Tropico's population follows something of an RPG level model. Each Tropican begins with a skill level of 0 and raises their level through education, which the player must provide. Tropicans learn on their own, topping out at level 5. The level determines their skill, which helps to determine their jobs, earning capacity and happiness. Tropicans have a modicum of self-preservation if things aren't going their way and are capable of building shanties for themselves. Don't allow this to go along for too long; the populace becomes angry if they have to live under these circumstances for more than a day or two.